A case of massive retroperitoneal hematoma secondary to hernia repair and review of the literature

Abstract

Retroperitoneal hematomas are very rare and possibly fatal complications of hernia surgery. In this study, we report the case of a 24-year-old patient who developed a massive left preperitoneal and retroperitoneal hematoma following vessel injury during Shouldice hernia repair. Despite a packing during haemostasis surgery and being well resuscitated, the patient died in haemorrhagic shock. This case highlights the importance of early detection of signs of postoperative bleeding in the outcome of patients undergoing hernia repair.